JIPMER launches J-CARES Centre to strengthen student mental health support

puducherry: the jawaharlal institute of postgraduate medical education and research (jipmer) has launched a dedicated mental health initiative — the j-cares (jipmer centre for counseling, assistance, resilience, and empowerment of students) cell — aimed at promoting the emotional well-being and resilience of its students.the new centre will cater to both undergraduate and postgraduate students, offering counselling services through trained counsellors and a peer-support system. the initiative comes in the backdrop of a growing national focus on student mental health, following the supreme court-appointed national task force to address such concerns.jipmer director dr. vir singh negi said the idea for j-cares was inspired by a model he implemented earlier at aiims bilaspur. the cell will operate under the supervision of the academic section, with a core faculty group and trained “gatekeeper” members from various departments overseeing its functioning.students can access support through multiple channels — including email, online forms, dropboxes, faculty mentors, and a 24x7 helpline. the cell will also conduct mental health promotion activities throughout the year. dr. negi said jipmer remains committed to fostering a healthy, inclusive, and supportive campus environment.